Why the Setup Matters
Installing a central air conditioner is not a plug-and-play job. The equipment has to be matched to the ductwork, the electrical supply, and the size of your home. A system that is too large will short-cycle and waste energy, while one that is too small will run constantly and struggle to cool. Our crew spends time upfront measuring and checking the existing setup so the new unit fits and performs as intended.
The work begins long before the truck arrives. Permits may be needed from your local building department, and the old system has to be removed and disposed of properly. Refrigerant must be recovered, not vented, and the electrical disconnect must meet current code. A thorough installation protects your investment and keeps your home comfortable for years.
The Crew Arrives and Prepares
On installation day, our crew pulls up with all the equipment, tools, and materials loaded on the truck. We start by covering walkways and laying down drop cloths to protect your floors and landscaping. The power to the old unit is shut off at the breaker, and the refrigerant is recovered using a machine that captures it for proper disposal. No refrigerant is released into the air.
Next, the old indoor and outdoor units are disconnected and removed. The indoor coil is typically in the attic or a closet, and the outdoor condenser sits on a concrete pad or brackets. We haul the old equipment out to the truck and clean up any debris. This stage usually takes a few hours, depending on how accessible the old units are.
Installing the New Equipment
With the old system gone, we install the new indoor coil and outdoor condenser. The coil slides into the air handler or furnace cabinet, and the lineset — the two copper tubes that carry refrigerant — is connected. We use a nitrogen pressure test to check for leaks before opening the refrigerant valves. A vacuum pump then pulls moisture and air out of the lines, which is critical for efficiency and compressor life.
The outdoor unit is set on a level pad or brackets, and the electrical wiring is run from the disconnect box. We install a new thermostat if needed, or connect the existing one. The condensate drain is checked and cleared so water flows away freely. Every connection is tightened to the manufacturer's torque specs, and the system is charged with the exact amount of refrigerant listed on the nameplate.
Testing and Startup
Once everything is connected, we turn the power back on and start the system. The thermostat is set to cooling mode, and we watch the pressures, temperatures, and airflow. The supply vents should blow cool air within a few minutes, and the return air temperature drop should match the manufacturer's specifications. We measure the temperature split across the indoor coil to confirm the charge is correct.
We also check the outdoor unit for proper fan operation and listen for unusual noises. The condensate line is tested by pouring water into the drain pan to make sure it flows out without backing up. The system is allowed to run through a full cycle, and we verify that the thermostat shuts it off at the set point. Any adjustments are made before we clean up.
Cleanup and Final Walkthrough
After the system passes all checks, we pack up tools, remove drop cloths, and sweep the work area. The old equipment is loaded onto the truck and taken away for recycling. We show you how to use the new thermostat and explain the basic maintenance schedule, such as changing the filter every one to three months. A copy of the owner's manual is left with you or sent digitally.
Before we leave, we answer any questions you have about the system or the warranty paperwork. The job is not done until you are comfortable with how everything works. A clean, professional installation means you can count on reliable cooling from day one. If you are in San Marcos and considering a new AC, our crew can walk you through the same process.